Science · Class 6–10

Solar & Lunar Eclipses

See exactly how the Sun, Earth and Moon line up to create a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse.

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🧠 Remember it

Solar & Lunar Eclipses

SOlar = Sun hidden, mOOn in the middle. LUnar = mOOn dark, earth in the middle. "New Moon → Solar, Full Moon → Lunar."

🌏 In real life

On 8 April 2024 millions watched a total solar eclipse turn day to twilight for a few minutes. In India, a lunar eclipse ("Chandra Grahan") is safe to watch with the naked eye, but a solar eclipse must never be viewed directly.

📝 Quick notes

  • A SOLAR eclipse happens at NEW MOON, when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth and blocks the Sun.
  • A LUNAR eclipse happens at FULL MOON, when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, and Earth's shadow falls on the Moon.
  • Eclipses do not happen every month because the Moon's orbit is tilted by about 5°.
  • Never look at a solar eclipse with bare eyes — it can permanently damage the retina; a lunar eclipse is safe to watch.

🎯 Test yourself

In a solar eclipse, which body is in the middle?

The Moon — it comes between the Sun and the Earth (at new moon).

Learn it fully — free

See the animated, step-by-step Solar & Lunar Eclipses lesson on Syllab

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